Unfortunately, much of what happens in life is out of our control. Insurance can’t prevent bad things from happening, but it offers a financial buffer when they do.

Here, we’ll review the most common equine policies, what they entail, and different circumstances to consider.

Most Common Equine Insurance Policies

Restricted Perils

Also called Specified or Named Perils, Restriced Perils is the least expensive option and covers only what is listed in the policy, such as death by wind, fire and/or smoke, lightning, collision, or overturn in vehicular transit. Depending on the company, it may include theft.

Full Mortality

A full mortality insurance policy covers death due to any cause, except for willful neglect or destruction. It covers the insured horse in the event that he dies or must be humanely destroyed due to illness, accident, injury, disease, fire, smoke, lightning or theft.

Think of Restricted Perils and Full Mortality policies as “life insurance.”

Major Medical

Major Medical protects the horse owner against covered medical, veterinary, and surgical costs up to a specified amount per policy year.

Surgical

This policy reimburses for covered surgical expenses up to a specified amount per policy year. Surgical coverage applies to necessary procedures performed under general anesthesia, not elective surgeries, like castration.

Colic

This equine insurance policy reimburses for a medical or surgical colic.

Major Medical, Surgical and Colic endorsements aren’t available on their own, but can be added to a Full Mortality policy. Think of these policies as “health insurance.”

Equine Insurance Policy Details

“Full Mortality is the base policy, and then you can add to it,” says Rhonda Mack, an agent in the Ocala, Fla., office of EPIC Insurance, a nationwide company.

“Most insurance companies include a colic surgery endorsement with Full Mortality, but you can add additional coverage on top of that,” says Mack, noting that some companies allow “stacking” of endorsements.

A colic endorsement has a $10,000 limit and will reimburse the owner for medical or surgical colic expenses for an insured horse.

Major Medical typically covers issues like lameness, gastric ulcers, eye injuries, clinic costs, MRIs, et cetera, plus surgical costs, such as colic surgery. Some insurance companies include acupuncture and chiropractic in their Major Medical policy, but coverage varies with each company, so read your policy carefully.

The decision to purchase equine insurance is both financial and emotional.

“It’s based on your comfort level and what you worry about happening to your horse,” says Mack. “If your horse is facing a $12,000 colic surgery and you have to make a decision based on if you can afford it or not, insurance can give you peace of mind, knowing you have help with veterinary expenses.”

Horse Value

The premium for Full Mortality coverage is determined by the price you paid for the horse and his use (pleasure, show, racing, or breeding). If you bred the horse, your insurance agent can help determine a value based on stud fee, bloodlines, sales averages, et cetera.

“Most carriers now require a minimum Full Mortality insurance amount of $15,000 to be eligible for Major Medical,” says Mack.

The following examples are based on December 2023 policy prices.

An 8-year-old dressage horse insured for $25,000 under Full Mortality with a $10,000 major medical policy would have an annual premium of approximately $1,375.

A 10-year-old Quarter Horse trail horse insured for $5,500 with a $10,000 surgical endorsement and $5,000 free colic surgery would have an annual premium of approximately $350.

Reimbursement

Major Medical already includes surgical expenses up to a specified amount. For a relatively low price (usually under $200), owners can add a $10,000 surgical endorsement to their Full Mortality coverage.

Endorsements function by reimbursement, rather than paying the veterinarian directly. The horse owner pays the veterinarian and then turns in the invoices and veterinary report to be reimbursed for the covered expenses, less any deductible and copay.

For example, if the insured horse required a $9,000 colic surgery, after the deductible and co-pay are applied, the owner would be reimbursed about $8,000.

Horse Age

Age comes into play when insuring horses.

“After age 15, premiums get higher,” says Mack. “Most companies will insure to age 18, some to age 20. We consider all horses’ birthdays to be January 1, even if they’re born in June.”

Even though full mortality and surgical coverage aren’t usually available after age 20, Restricted Perils coverage is still offered.

Individual Horse Owner’s (IHO) Liability Coverage

Individual Horse Owner’s (IHO) liability coverage has nothing to do with the health of the horse. This policy protects the owner in the event their horse causes damage to a person or property.

“Equine liability is recommended,” says Mack. “Any time you own a horse, you have risk exposure.”

Coverage provides liability protection in many situations, such as if your horse gets loose at a show and injures someone.

You don’t need to own property to purchase this coverage, and it’s for those who don’t derive income from their horses. With IHO liability, the premium is based on the number of horses owned.

Mack says that an IHO liability policy with $1 million coverage covering a few horses generally costs less than $400 a year.

Many people mistakenly assume their personal homeowner’s policy extends to cover damage or injury caused by horses.

Insurance for Equine Businesses

People who own breeding and training farms or boarding stables should have a commercial liability or farm package policy, which includes the residence on the property as well as equine owner’s liability coverage. Care, custody & control is another option if you board horses you don’t own.

Let’s say your horse breaks through the fence and ends up on the road, causing an auto accident. If there is damage to the car and/or an injury or death of the car’s occupant(s), a resulting claim would not be covered under most homeowner’s policies.

However, if found negligent, it would be covered under a commercial farm owner’s policy or IHO liability policy. (Equine liability policies also cover defense costs).

Key Takeaway

If you decide to consider insurance coverage, don’t be afraid to talk to more than one provider, get multiple quotes, and ask plenty of questions.

In the end, your peace of mind is worth every penny.

This article about equine insurance policies appeared in the April 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Equine Insurance Policies appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Each year, hurricanes, wildfires, and severe storms force thousands across the country to evacuate their homes. When preparing for a potential natural disaster, it is best to follow the adage of “expect the best but prepare for the worst.” Taking the time now to make an emergency and natural disaster preparedness plan for your family—including your horses and other animals—can be lifesaving.

Startling Natural Disaster Statistics

According to a survey conducted by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), more than one in five pet owners (including horses) have evacuated their homes due to a disaster situation, and of those evacuees, nearly half have left at least one pet behind at the time of evacuation.

Of those who left at least one pet behind, nearly 30 percent cited not having enough time when the disaster struck as their reasoning for doing so, further emphasizing the need to prepare for an emergency in advance.

“We want to remind horse owners to always bring your horses and other animals with you if you need to evacuate,” says Christie Schulte Kappert, senior director of ASPCA Equine Welfare. “Leaving a horse or pet behind can expose them to numerous life-threatening hazards, including the inability to escape the impending emergency—such as flood waters, fires, and high winds—as well as having no access to fresh food and water for an unknown period.”

Horse Preparedness Before the Disaster

Your horses should be as equally prepared for a disaster emergency as your facility. The ASPCA’s Christie Shulte Kappert makes the following recommendations to ensure their readiness:

◆ Horses should be accustomed to wearing a halter.
◆ Practice loading on a trailer during calm conditions so horses are on autopilot during an emergency.
◆ Horses should be accustomed to being handled by strangers.
◆ Work with your neighbors or barn mates to practice loading each other’s horses so they are used to multiple types of trailers and handlers.

Horse Identification

In the case that you and your horse become separated during an evacuation, you will need to mark him with some sort of identification so you can be reunited later.

According to Schulte Kappert, microchips become a vital lifeline after times of disaster or other unforeseen events.

Once a chip is implanted, be certain to register it with the microchip’s manufacturer, as without registration, the microchip is not linked to any useful data. If you purchase a microchipped horse, be sure to update the personal contact info.

If microchipping is not an option, in an emergency Schulte Kappert recommends braiding an ID clip or luggage tag into your horse’s mane or tail or painting your phone number on his side with non-toxic paint.

In instances where microchipping is not available, tattoos can make a good second choice during non-emergency situations.

Emergency Kit

The ASPCA recommends that the following items be included in your natural disaster or emergency preparedness kit:

◆ Contact information for yourself and a confirmed emergency caretaker.
◆ Addresses and directions to local or regional sheltering options.
◆ Tack/equipment checklist, extra lead ropes, and extra halters.
◆ Veterinary records, including a current Coggins.
◆ Paperwork proving your ownership of your horse (branding papers, microchip registration, photos).
◆ A seven- to 10-day supply of feed, medications, and water and clean buckets.
◆ An equine first-aid kit that includes items like bandages, bandage scissors, and any necessary medications.

Faster Response Time

Severe weather events are stressful and scary for people and animals.

“Owners should create an emergency plan customized to their animals, location, facility and the likely scenarios that will cause an emergency; wildfire preparation is very different than a hurricane,” says Schulte Kappert. “Having a plan for your area’s possible scenario(s) will help you stay calm and act swiftly when the emergency arrives. Reach out to your county’s emergency management office or extension agents to follow guidelines about the disasters they plan to encounter and how to respond.”

For example, she says that many counties have designated fairgrounds as emergency shelters; you can use this type of information in creating your plan.

Working Together

Working together with your neighbors can also be extremely helpful. Schulte Kappert further recommends creating a phone tree/buddy system with other nearby horse owners and local farms.

Consider teaming up with other horse owners to pool your resources, including sharing trailer space and hay, and share your evacuation plans in advance.

“This is especially important for owners who board at a public facility or don’t own a trailer,” she says. “If you board, check with the stable owner about their emergency management plans and make sure you and your horse are prepared to respond accordingly.”

Schulte Kappert also recommends having a plan in place in the event you are away from home when evacuation orders are issued.

“Identify an emergency caretaker for your horse and other animals in advance and provide them with your plan,” she says.

Trailer Preparations

Another part of your emergency natural disaster preparedness plan should include making certain that your trailer is ready for transport at any time. Any time you may need to haul your horse, it’s important to inspect your trailer and its tire pressure, brake battery, and safety chains or cables.

It’s critical to have a trailer big enough for all your equines, including a place to tether them inside. If you have advance notice of an impending disaster, hook up your trailer ahead of time.

Act Swiftly

Whether it is you or a caretaker, it’s important to act promptly once evacuation orders have been announced. Schulte Kappert advises planning as if you may not be allowed to return home for at least seven to 10 days. She says that you should follow the instructions of local and state officials and evacuate as soon as possible, as it may take additional time to load your horses, other animals, and supplies.

Emergency and natural disaster preparedness does not have to be a daunting task. Instead, having a plan in place can help to make an emergency less frightening for everyone.

Emergency and Natural Disaster Preparedness with Horses: Key Takeaway

Natural disasters can strike without warning, and preparedness is essential to ensuring the safety of both your family and your horses. By taking proactive steps now to create a comprehensive emergency plan for your animals, you can minimize the risks and stress that come with facing a crisis. Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay safe.

This article about horse emergency and natural disaster preparedness appeared in the September 2023 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Emergency and Natural Disaster Preparedness with Horses appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Despite sparse coverage on national news, the devastation left in Hurricane Helene’s wake is unimaginable, according to those with boots on the ground in North Carolina. According to military and government personnel, due to the storm’s extensive damage, rescue and relief efforts will continue for weeks and months as they attempt to aid people and animals stranded in the wake of this recent storm, especially those in rural, mountain towns.

One of my little riding lesson students once said that making new friends at the barn is really easy, “because horse people are just different.” And as an adult, I can’t agree with her more. Equestrians are a different breed, and when our fellow horse lovers or their beloved animals are in need of help, our community is always ready to help. So here’s what you need to know:

First and Foremost: Civilians, Please Stay Home!

Government officials, military leaders, are insisting that civilians stay out of affected areas, including Asheville, Boone, and Candor. It has continued to rain in many of the heavily affected areas since the start of the storm, so the water hasn’t had time to recede. Access to many of the small, rural, mountain towns is impossible by motor vehicle; many affected areas are currently only accessible by air due to washed out roadways or landslides. There have also been episodes of violence upon relief workers and people bringing food or supplies into the area because the people stranded in these mountain areas are getting very desperate. Civilians who want to help should not attempt to enter these areas. Trained professionals like police and members of the military need to be able to do their jobs, and untrained civilians trying to help end up doing more harm than good. They block roadways, and often get themselves into situations that they need rescued from, taking time and resources from rescue efforts.

The Best Way to Help is with Your Wallet

In these first days, rescue efforts are focused mainly on human lives — and in reality, animals can only receive the care they need if their humans also have their most basic necessities met.

But animal and equine rescue organizations are mobilizing, and these organizations will be working for weeks and months ahead.

Currently, the best way to help is to donate.

Here are some organizations that will be in desperate need of financial support in the coming days, weeks, and months ahead:

◆ American Red Cross North Carolina: In order for animals to get the care and help that they need, their humans need to be safe as well. To make a financial donation, call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767), text HELENE to 90999, or donate online.

◆ Operation Airdrop ensures that essential supplies reach those in need when ground transportation is compromised. For more information about Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts, visit here.

◆ Animal Search and Rescue (ASAR) is staged in Statesville and providing immediate relief for animals in the mountains. Visit here to help.

◆ Fleet of Angels is an equine-specific rescue organization that is currently organizing vets, equine supplies, and relief for horses. To help equines affected by Hurricane Helene, donate to the most urgent need or natural disaster fund here.

◆ The Humane Society of the United States is also in action in the Southeast, supporting animals. Please visit here to donate.

◆ Green River Foundation: If you are interested in making a financial contribution to recovery efforts, you may write a check to the Green River Foundation and mail to the above address with “Hurricane Helene relief” in the memo. 100% of your donation will go to the relief efforts in Polk, Rutherford, Henderson and Buncombe Counties in North Carolina and Spartanburg County, South Carolina. 100% of the contribution will be tax deductible.

◆ Tryon International is hosting first responders. Beginning Thursday, October 3, a supply distribution and donation drop off point will be open from 10 a.m. -6 p.m. daily for free supplies available to anyone who needs them, for humans, pets and livestock. This distribution center will operate as a drive-through, staffed with volunteers and Tryon International team members, as part of the Polk County network of disaster relief locations. Follow signs for drive-through pick up or drop off of supplies.

Location:
2676 John Shehan Rd,
Mill Spring, NC 28756

Limited showers and laundry facilities are available at the Lodging Office building at 2676 John Shehan Road. Please bring your own towels for shower facilities, and expect a wait.

Thursday, October 3, a free community meal will be provided near the Tryon International Lodging Office, with more information to come.

How to Help with Tryon’s Efforts:

Donations are being accepted starting Wednesday, October 2 for the supply distribution and donation drop off point, starting at 10 a.m. at the Indoor Complex at Tryon International. The following items are being requested:

◆ Water
◆ Non-perishable food items
◆ Hygiene items
◆ Baby formula and diapers
◆ Towels
◆ Socks and underwear
◆ First-aid kits
◆ Batteries and flashlights
◆ Portable chargers/battery packs
◆ Animal hay and feed, pet food, and kitty litter
◆ Shovels, tarps, chainsaws, and work gloves
◆ Hand sanitizer
◆ Buckets and trash bags
◆ Coolers

Please contact media@tryon.com if you would like to volunteer to receive donations or to help distribute items to community members.

Many have asked if they can ship donations to Tryon to distribute to the first responders and via our pending supply center. The answer is yes: if you are unable to physically bring donations but want to ship supplies to Tryon International for distribution, you can do so at the below address.

Tryon International
Attn: Hurricane Donations
4066 Pea Ridge Road
Mill Spring, NC 28756

All Tryon International restaurants will be opened starting Wednesday, October 2, to support our community, guests and first responders on-site. They will continue offering all-you-can-eat buffets that have previously been offered in Campagna Italian Cuisine, relocating to Legends Club.

The post Hurricane Helene Relief: Donations Needed for Human, Equine, and Other Animal Aid appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Severe thunderstorms with high winds, lightning, and hail are never any fun, but they often pass by without causing any significant damage. Still, there’s always the chance that they could cause a problem. The good news is there are some simple steps you can follow to ready your farm and prepare for loss of power. Here, we’ll look at some ways to ensure your property and horses can safely weather the storm, plus some things to consider if you do experience damage.

Lightning

Before the Storm:

◆ Disconnect the fence charger. Electric fencing is usually connected to some type of grounding poles, which turn the whole fence into a giant lightning rod. If lightning does strike your fence, the high voltage may travel through the wires and blast through your fence charger on its way toward dissipating in the ground.

We had this happen once on our farm: Lightning struck a tree on the other side of the pasture, jumped to the ground and then to the electric fence (burning a great deal in the process), and ran all the way around the pasture before destroying the charger.

To keep lightning from potentially ruining your charger, you can simply disconnect the two wires marked “fence” and “ground” (they might be marked with a “+” and “-”) well before the storm arrives. Don’t forget to reconnect them afterwards. (If horses will be in the paddock with that fence during the storm, then this probably isn’t a wise option).

◆ Consider fencing off pasture trees. You’re probably aware that lighting tends to gravitate toward the tallest objects in an area, so single shade trees standing the middle of a pasture can be targets.

If there are horses in the pasture when a storm strikes (more on this below), they may be more inclined to take shelter near the tree. For this reason, some horse owners choose to fence off pasture trees so that the horses can’t stand directly under them.

Wind

Before the Storm:

◆ Prepare trees. This is a bit more of “big picture” issue (not something you’ll be doing five minutes before the storm strikes), but you’ll want to give some thought to possible damage from trees and branches in a storm. Do you have trees near the barn with major branches hanging over the roof? What about other buildings?

◆ Put things away. If there’s a chance of significant wind, try to secure or store your machinery (tractors, UTVs, et cetera). Also, clear the barn aisles of tools and small items that can easily go flying if strong winds rush down the aisle.

After the Storm:

◆ Check fencing. Take a trip around the pastures after the storm to make sure there are no large branches or trees down on the fencing that could allow the horses to get out. Also, keep an eye out for wind damage to the fencing—it’s not impossible for a strong wind to pop boards and even topple posts in certain conditions.

◆ Look for “spookables.” Check the pastures, walking paths, and barn areas for debris and trash blown around (maybe from neighboring properties) that might cause accidents if a horse is surprised by them.

Hail

Before the Storm:

◆ Bring the horses indoors. Hail of any significant diameter can cause injury, so placing the horses in stalls ahead of time is prudent if hail is in the storm forecast.

◆ Park the machines. If you can manage it, consider moving any valuable machines and vehicles indoors to prevent hail damage. Luckily, some horse owners have a large place perfectly suited for this: the indoor riding arena.

After the Storm:

◆ You might want to wait until the hail/sleet has melted before venturing out again; during a warm-weather thunderstorm, this doesn’t take very long.

Water for Horses During Storms

Before the Storm:

◆ Save water. If you can manage it, saving water before the storm is helpful. Besides filling all of your horses’ buckets and troughs to the top, you can save additional water with simple 5-gallon camping containers. If the storm doesn’t come, so much the better—just use up the water the next day.

After the Storm:

◆ For city water: If your home or horse barn is connected to a municipal water source, a power outage from a storm might not be an immediate issue, as the town’s water system may be gravity fed (from a water tower, for example), and the water will keep working even without electricity.

◆ If your horse property is more rural and the barn is fed from a private well, this may be more challenging. People often have small generators around to power a few lights and the refrigerator, but well pumps usually take a lot of electrical amps to function and require some special wiring to be in place ahead of time.

If your home has a large generator capable of powering the well pump, you should be able to get water to your horses that way, but owners of small generators may come up a little short. This is where saving water prior to the storm can help. For long-term outages, you could also look at hauling water from a neighbor who hasn’t lost power.

Electric Fence Power

Before the Storm:

◆ Asses your horses’ needs. What happens when you have an electric fence, and there is no electricity to run it? Whether or not this is an issue depends on your horses; some never touch the fence whether it’s on or off; others test it frequently. You’ll have to make a judgement call. The good news is that solar fences aren’t effected by an outage.

After the Storm:

◆ Solar/battery-powered fence: With this system, solar panels collect sunlight during the day to run the fence and store it in batteries for nighttime and cloudy days. If you have a system like this, it’s independent from a storm power outage, so you’re good to go.

◆ AC-powered fence uses AC power from a typical power plug. If there is a prolonged power outage, you can probably plug your electric fence charger up to a small generator, as fence chargers don’t use much power. Another alternative is to have a small solar charger on hand for outage emergencies.

Horses In or Out During a Storm?

Should the horses be in or out of the barn during a thunderstorm? If the storm is forecast early enough and you have ample time, you can put the horses in the barn, but not everyone does this. However, there are some solid reasons to do so:

◆ Horses may become frightened. High winds and thunder can upset even normally calm horses, and if the storm is intense, they could potentially run into a fence. The exception might be in a case where a particular horse is much more anxious being indoors during the storm. Again, it’s case-by-case question that only you can answer.

◆ Lightning could be a threat. Horses are large, tall animals in an open area, and lightning strikes are not unheard of. Many horse owners prefer placing their animals inside a structurally sound, grounded stable.

◆ Damage to fencing can occur. If storm damage breaches a fence, it could offer the horses an escape route while the storm is still happening and before you have a chance to intervene.

The tips here are only meant to be a guide and to offer some suggestions, but ultimately the decisions are up to you and will come down to your specific situation. Hopefully, your thunderstorms will pass by harmlessly, but it never hurts to do some preparation and have some backup plans in place.

Here’s hoping for beautiful, sunny weather!

This article about keeping your horses and property safe during a storm appeared in the September 2022 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Keeping Horses and Property Safe in a Storm appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Medical Guardian Pendant, Clip-on or Watch

Features GPS location and two-way communication.

◆ Health monitoring: No
◆ Fall-detection: Yes, with pendant and clip-on (not available
with watch).
◆ Cell connection $40/month (advanced
features extra)
◆ Available at www.medicalguardian.com

Garmin inReach

Satellite communication messenger is perfect for remote areas without cell service. Features GPS location, SOS activation and texting, tracking.
◆ Health monitoring: No
◆ Fall detection: No
◆ $449.99; requires a subscription starting at $12/month ◆ Available at www.garmin.com

Kanega Watch

The primary function of this watch is fall detection. Alerts automatically or by voice or panic button on watch. Standalone device includes cellular connection. Features GPS location and two-way communication.

◆ $199 set-up and $60/month if paying for one year up front
◆ Available at www.unaliwear.com

Apple SE Watch

Features GPS location, two-way communication, SOS calling, compass.

◆ Fall detection: Yes
◆ Cell connection: Yes
◆ Apps: Apple products only (iOS system). Apps must first be downloaded onto iPhone.
◆ $249
◆ Available at www.apple.com

FitBit Versa 3

Features GPS location, two-way communication, health monitoring (heart rate, blood oxygen, et cetera).

◆ Fall detection: Yes
◆ Cell connection: Yes
◆ Apps: Works with both Android and Apple. Apps must first be downloaded onto a smartphone.
◆ $169.95
◆ Available at www.fitbit.com

ACR Electronics Bivy Stick

Satellite messenger with GPS location, SOS activation, two-way messaging, navigation, and pre-loaded maps.

◆ Health monitoring: No
◆ Fall detection: No
◆ $249.95; requires subscription starting at $14/month
◆ Available at www.acrartex.com

ACR Electronics ResQLink 400

Personal locator beacon used solely to send an SOS via satellite in an emergency (there is no option to cancel the SOS). Does not send or receive messages.

◆ Health monitoring: No
◆ Fall detection: No
◆ Must register with NOAA Search and Rescue (no fee). $359.95
◆ Available at www.acrartex.com

Samsung Galaxy Watch 4

Features GPS location, two-way communication, health
monitoring (ECG, blood pressure, heart rate, body
composition, sleep quality).

◆ Fall detection: Yes
◆ Cell connection: Yes
◆ Apps: Android apps only. Apps must first be downloaded
onto smartphone.
◆ $170-$400, depending on cosmetic features;
◆ Available at www.samsung.com

Apps & More

Horse Rider SOS

For iPhone and Android. Activate when you begin your ride. If you stop moving, it sends an alert, which you can cancel. Free; in-app purchases.

FallCall

For Apple products. A high-impact fall triggers alert to EMS. Low impact sends a message to your contacts list. FallCall Lite is a voice-activated system for Apple and Android. Subscriptions required. Free; in-app purchases.

Man Down

App for iPhone. It alerts if the app user stops moving. It can be configured to monitor heartrate, trip tracking, and other movement. Free.

RoadiD

App sends real-time info to a contact list of locations. Alerts if it detects non-movement. Wearer can also initiate an alert. Free; in-app purchases.

ID-MyHorse

ID-MyHorse provides two lightweight leather tags with a form for vital information about the rider and the horse. They can be carried on the rider and braided into the horse’s mane. $20; www.ID-MyHorse.com

This article about emergency alerts for equestrians appeared in the August 2022 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Emergency Alerts for Equestrians appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

A barn fire is one of the biggest fears of a horse owner. However, victims of barn fires learn that while they thought they were prepared with insurance and safety measures, it turns out they weren’t.

Learn About Barn Fire Prevention

The Indiana Thoroughbred Alliance (ITA) presents an educational seminar on Saturday, July 16 to present what barn owners need to do to be better prepared for such a tragedy. The seminar will be hosted in part with Horseshoe Indianapolis in the Family Pavilion of the grandstand, starting with a morning networking opportunity at 10:00.

In an effort to turn a tragedy into a positive, the ITA wanted to share what has been learned in the aftermath of recent barn fires. “That’s why we chose the topics that are being covered in this seminar, because we learned so much from the fire and had no idea what we didn’t know,” says Susan Burger, ITA board member and Thoroughbred farm owner.

The board members worked alongside the presenters of the seminar to put together an informative program that gives attendees the most information in an easily digestible nugget.

Discussing the legal ramifications of a barn fire, Peter Sacopulos has specialized in equine and real estate law, amongst other specialties. Sacopulos is familiar with the Indiana horse racing industry, as a member of the Indiana Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association and having represented the industry in multiple facets.

The insurance information you didn’t need to know will be presented by horsewoman and insurance expert, Kim Green with Schuetz Insurance Services. Horse owners will learn about emergency triage and what to do with the animals in the midst of the fire with Denise Fletcher. And, finally, member of ATF and horsewoman Cassandra Jones shares tips on what you can do to prevent and battle barn fires.

Attendees will be treated to lunch on the breezeway of Horseshoe Indianapolis and everyone will be eligible for giveaways provided by sponsors such as the ITA, Finish Line Horse Products, the Quarter Horse Racing Association of Indiana, the Indiana Standardbred Association, Murphy Trailer Sales and others.

Attendance is open to everyone, and free registration is required. Complete the registration here.

The seminar will be livestreamed via the ITA Facebook page and on ShowBarnFlix.com. Updates will be posted on the ITA Facebook page.

About the Indiana Thoroughbred Alliance

The Indiana Thoroughbred Alliance (ITA) is a collaboration of breeders and horse enthusiasts dedicated to the continued success of Thoroughbred breeding and racing in the state of Indiana. The not for profit group was formed in 2020 and continues to welcome new members.

More information can be found on the group’s website.

The post Free Barn Fire Prevention Seminar appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Our generally optimistic outlook on life with horses is not often eroded by a fear of being sued. Most of us never expect it from loved ones or horsey friends, yet this precise situation happens with some frequency.

A myriad of hazardous situations involving horses can result in a lawsuit, most too complicated to resolve without an experienced attorney. Yet we offer horseback rides to family members, casually board horses on our properties for extra income, and lend our trailers to friends.

The following should not constitute legal advice—always consult an attorney for that—but these five topics are designed to give you an idea of the prime areas of conflict that crop up in equine legal disputes and court cases.

1. Legality when Buying and Selling

Far too many horse buyers are more emotional than careful when buying a horse, and thus they are amazingly cavalier about documenting the transaction. They fall in love with a horse, sometimes by merely looking at it online, and purchase it sight unseen.

Most buyers and sellers jot a few words on paper about the exchange of money and consider that sufficient to change ownership. It may be for some, but protection in a dispute about ownership is better ensured with a detailed and thorough contract that you can easily find if needed.

If presenting a contract—or signing one already drawn up—seems beyond the needs of the average horse owner, consider how many horse buyers wait for registration papers that never arrive, take possession of an injured horse upon delivery, or discover their new performance horse has a periodic lameness issue related to a previous case of laminitis that the seller neglected to disclose. Those equine legal issues can be easily prevented with a proper contract.

Sometimes the seller insists on a “right of first refusal” (see sidebar, left), yet the buyer sells the horse without informing the former owner. What is the recourse when a sale is made on a proverbial handshake deal?

If hiring an attorney to draw up the specifics of a sale seems like overkill, at least consider using one of the many online equine sales contracts that provide a good starting point for buyers and sellers. Specific details or modifications can be added by either party to strengthen its viability, should a dispute arise.

2. Equine Legal Issues When Boarding

Most boarding stable owners are careful enough to require signed documentation from boarders limiting the business’s risk of liability in the event of an accident involving a boarder or their horse. That document typically outlines the rules established by the stable for everything from turning off arena lights to requiring all one-day riders or those test-riding a horse for possible purchase to sign a legal liability waiver.

High-profile boarding stable owners don’t rely on loosely worded boarding contracts with one-size-fits-all contractual language, because they know the cost of an attorney is minuscule compared to a judgement against them in a personal injury lawsuit.

More casual horse boarding operations would be wise to follow suit. Non-paying boarders or those routinely late with payments often present a problem that ends up with the horse as the only bargaining chip. In these situations, frustrated stable owners sometimes overstep legal boundaries.

“Declaring the stable to be the owner of the horse and selling it without following the law or putting the horse in the stable’s lesson program may not be legal,” says Julie Fershtman, a national trial lawyer, legal consultant, and author of two award-winning editions of Equine Law and Horse Sense. Fershtman is widely considered one of the top equine attorneys in the U.S.

“Stable owners of all types and sizes should be aware of their state agister’s lien statutes that give them a security interest in the horse that allows them to enforce the lien after a specified period of time has passed and the stable has performed specific procedures,” she says.

Boarding contracts typically include the Equine Liability Law for the state, and stable owners are also required in many states to post signs in the most visible barn areas to remind everyone of the inherent risk associated with horse activities. Copies of equine activity liability releases (sometimes referred to as waivers) should be on-site, signed and dated by non-boarders.

Some horse owners mistakenly believe equine liability waivers are not successfully defended in court, when the reverse is true. Even so, an equine liability release does not guarantee the stable cannot be held liable for any accident. For instance, equine legal issues may arise if a boarder can prove the stable owner has been negligent by failing to perform reasonable measures to protect the safety of boarders and their horses.

“Many in the horse industry misunderstand equine activity liability laws, currently found in 48 states, and wrongly assume that these are ‘zero liability’ laws,” says Fershtman.
“That is not true. Although many of these laws limit the basis for a claim or lawsuit, they typically allow for the possibility of certain types of claims to be brought.”

Horse owners sometimes view boarding contracts as routine paperwork that protects the rights of the stable owner, yet these signed agreements are often relied upon by both parties when a dispute arises.

3. Equine Legal Issues when Leasing

While an arrangement for leasing a horse can be a win-win for both parties, the best way to make sure everyone is on the same page is to write down the terms, fees and exclusions, and require each party to read and sign the contract. Without a written reminder, the lessee may believe her payments are for the purchase of the horse rather than its temporary use—and that’s a recipe for equine legal issues.

That’s merely one of many disagreements that can arise when time passes and memories fail. A written contract can include standard terms, such as duration of the lease, payment schedule, which days are assigned to each rider, and who is authorized to ride the horse.

More detailed contracts can define liability issues, who is responsible for veterinary and farrier care, and whether the lessee has the option to buy the horse during or at the end of the lease. The more specific the contract, the greater the chance of a positive outcome.

4. Equine Legal Issues when Trailering

When you own a horse trailer, you can count on someone eventually asking to borrow it, use it in an emergency, or asking you to transport a horse in your trailer for a fee. All of those situations can lead to potential equine legal issues, if you don’t take the right preventative steps.

First, you need to be aware of what your insurance policy will or will not cover. Those who assume their homeowner’s policy or car insurance will pay an accident claim involving a horse trailer and someone else’s property can live to regret it.

For example, a policy may cover personal use of your truck and trailer, yet consider you a commercial entity if you were paid to transport someone else’s horse. Unfortunately, insurance companies look for holes in your policy that allow them to deny claims. This is why policy holders never want to hear their insurance agent say, “read the fine print” after something goes wrong.

5. Equine Legal Insurance

Commercial horse businesses generally carry extensive insurance because their liability is multiplied by buildings, equipment, employees, boarders and visitors. Always know what your insurance specifically covers before you need it.

Trainers and riding instructors should be especially careful since they are on the “front lines” with more hands-on responsibility for clients and horses. Many carry umbrella policies that cover general liability insurance plus added coverage for care, custody, and control of their clients’ horses. The facility where training and riding instruction is conducted does not typically carry coverage that indemnifies trainers and riding instructors.

Horse owners and those in the horse industry shouldn’t live in continual fear of being sued, but we do live in a litigious society. Covering all bases with solid, detailed contracts, hiring a lawyer to handle complicated issues, and buying insurance specific to your horse activities is the best way to protect your assets.

The post Avoiding Equine Legal Issues appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

One stable chore that should be done regularly is cleaning and disinfecting the containers from which a horse eats and drinks. Completing this task so your horse has clean feed equipment is more than a quick rinse under the water hydrant; it involves several critical steps and an understanding of what products to use for each step.

Sandra Norman, DVM, a veterinarian and the director of Companion Animal and Equine at the Indiana State Board of Animal Health, offers advice on how often to clean buckets, feed tubs, water tanks, hay nets, and the like. “Cleaning and disinfecting procedures and frequency depend on the farm and activity,” says Norman. “Buckets, feed tubs, and other often-used items should be cleaned once or twice daily. Water tanks should be dumped at least once a week and more often in mosquito season, as that is a common place for mosquito larvae to develop. If equipment is used by multiple horses and owners, those items should be cleaned between horses.

“As feed is added to hay nets, new potential contamination is added,” continues Norman. “Rinsing hay nets between hay additions can help, especially if disease has been on the farm previously. Another common example of a biosecurity hazard is the end of the hose going from bucket to bucket of water—it can spread Streptococcus bacteria that cause strangles.”

Why Clean Horse Feed Equipment?

There are many reasons for taking the time to clean buckets, feed tubs, water tanks, hay nets, feed scoops and feed storage bins, etc. These include:

◆ Improved general horse health: Clean food and water containers promote healthy respiratory and digestive systems.
◆ Preventing the spread of diseases: Many diseases can spread through saliva, mucous from coughing and sneezing, nasal discharge, and drainage from abscesses. These bodily fluids can all rapidly spread diseases, such as strangles, equine influenza, and equine herpesvirus.
◆ Increasing water consumption: If a water bucket or tank has clean, fresh water in it, horses will drink better, which can decrease the risk of dehydration and colic episodes.
◆ Pest and mold control: Dirty feed tubs are also breeding grounds for mold and flies and an invitation for mice and rats to come calling.
◆ Asthetics and curb appeal: Things just look better if they are clean and neat, and that makes you feel better and presents your barn well to visitors and boarders.

Tools for the Chore

To get started with cleaning horse feed equipment, gather the following cleaning tools:

◆ Long rubber household cleaning gloves or nitrile gloves
◆ Safety glasses or goggles
◆ A bucket, clean plastic jug or wash tub of known capacity to mix cleaning and disinfecting solutions
◆ A measuring cup and measuring spoons to measure the correct amount of disinfectant for the mix
◆ Scrub brushes of various sizes and shapes
◆ Clean rags or towels
◆ A quart-sized spray bottle or water hose attachment for mixing and applying garden fertilizer
◆ Dish detergent
◆ A disinfectant (chosen with the help of a veterinarian)
◆ A deep sink or hose attached to a water source (having hot and cold water is a plus, but cold water will do)

Choose a place to do the washing and rinsing carefully since chlorine bleach and other disinfectants can kill grass and other plants. And, all of the water used in the process will make mud, which is no fun to walk through, much less push a wheelbarrow through. So, choose somewhere where the washing process and runoff won’t cause issues, such as a gravel driveway or parking area, a concrete slab, or an asphalt driveway or out-of-way barn aisle.

Keep in mind that many of the disinfectants will cause bleached spots or stains on clothing, and the entire process is like going to a water park—you are going to get wet! Consider wearing a pair of coveralls or a rain slicker or old clothes. And, boots or muckers are useful to keep your feet dry. Wear gloves and safety glasses to protect your skin and eyes.

The biggest decision is which disinfectant to use. According to Norman, that choice really depends on the organisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi, molds) you are trying to kill and the surfaces you are cleaning. She adds that some pathogens are more resistant than others, and that although chlorine bleach can be effective against many common disease organisms, it is not effective against certain ones, such as equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV 1, also known as equine rhinopneumonitis) and some others.

In the case of a disease outbreak, she says a state veterinarian would direct barn managers and horse owners on which products would be most effective against the specific organisms in each case.

For routine cleaning your local veterinarian should be able to advise you on what products to use, and in some cases, they may need to assist you with ordering those products. A list of resources is at the end of this article, as well.

Laurent L. Couëtil, DVM, Ph.D., head of Large Animal Internal Medicine and the director of Equine Research Programs at the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, says that in their large animal hospital, they use a strict cleaning and disinfecting regimen in between each patient since they are a treatment facility and often deal with sick animals.

After removing all of the bedding, the staff there do a thorough stall cleaning, first with detergent and rinsing and then applying bleach and rinsing again. After that they apply another disinfectant called Virex (a quaternary ammonium compound) and let that sit for 15 minutes, after which they rinse again. Finally, they finish with rinsing the floor drains and then filling them with disinfectant.

Proper Disinfection

For a boarding stable and family farm purposes, Couëtil offers his advice for routine cleaning of horse feed equipment. “At home, the first step is to remove organic matter by hosing down and scrubbing surfaces with detergent. Bleach is an excellent all-around disinfectant against many viruses, bacteria and fungi, but it does not work well if there is organic matter present (e.g. manure). Therefore, deep cleaning with abundant water hosing to remove organic matter is essential. Remember: The solution to pollution is dilution.

Couëtil stresses that label directions should be followed. “It is also important to use proper bleach dilution (10% or 1.5 cups per gallon of water),” he says. “Using undiluted bleach is very irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract and does not work better than diluted bleach.

“There are many other disinfectants available commercially, but it is very important to read the label to use the appropriate dilution and to determine if it is appropriate for the barn (and kills most common infectious agents),” continues Couëtil. “Deviating from the recommended dilution may result in decreased effectiveness. In other words, more is not better. I would advise against homemade disinfectants. There are lots of affordable commercial products that have been tested, and if properly used, are not toxic for people or animals.”

It should be mentioned that although vinegar and baking soda are great for removing odors and “freshening” buckets and feed tubs, neither is particularly good at killing disease organisms. So, reserve these kitchen staples for odor-eating and using as safe, non-toxic scrubs. Vinegar is an effective lime scale remover if you are dealing with hard water marks.

Safety Note: Never mix cleaning products (dish detergent or ammonia) with disinfecting products, such as chlorine bleach or name-brand disinfectants, since combining the two can create toxic gases, which can kill you or damage your lungs.

A helpful list of disinfectants, noting what pathogens they are effective against, is available on the Equine Disease Communication Center’s website. And, an information-filled downloadable pdf called “Disinfection 101” is also available.

Cleaning vs. Disinfecting

Understanding that “cleaning” and “disinfecting” are actually two different steps in the process is key. Cleaning is using a detergent (a cleaner that “emulsifies” organic matter, such as horse manure, soil, bird droppings, mold, etc.) to make it easier to remove that dirt and grime from a surface. Disinfecting involves applying a chemical cleaner to kill bacteria, viruses, fungi and/or molds.

Some surfaces are much easier to clean and disinfect than others. Non-porous materials like concrete, glass, metal and plastic are much easier to rid of dirt and germs effectively, while porous surfaces, such as wood are much more difficult to clean and disinfect.

Step-By-Step Cleaning and Disinfecting Process

1. Line up all supplies and tools, and think through the process of cleaning your horse feed equipment ahead of time.
2. Put on protective gear—gloves, safety glasses, overalls or old clothes, boots, etc.
3. If an item is excessively dirty or has caked on mud or manure, pre-rinse before washing with detergent.
4. Mix detergent and water in a bucket or large wash basin or in a clean plastic jug to make a cleaning solution. An empty water trough can also make a handy washing sink, and the water trough will end up clean, too. Either submerge the items to be washed in the wash basin or pour the detergent water into or over the item to be cleaned while spreading around the suds with a scrub brush. Make sure to have enough sudsy liquid in the bottom of the bucket or feed tub being washed to splash or brush the solution up the sides and around the rim.
5. Apply “elbow grease” with a scrub brush, going over all surfaces with sudsy water, and reapplying more wash liquid as needed until all interior and exterior surfaces have been scrubbed well.
6. Rinse with plain water.
7. Then examine the item to see if it is clean. Reapply detergent and scrub and rinse again, if needed, to remove any additional dirt and grime.
8. Mix the disinfectant (carefully chosen for the task) with water in the prescribed amount. Mix new disinfectant solution each time you clean, since it may lose effectiveness once mixed with water and after sitting for a time; review package directions for more information.
9. Apply disinfectant solution to the object with a sprayer or sponge, and allow it to sit for around 10–15 minutes, making sure the surface stays wet with the solution (check package instructions to see how long it needs to stay on a surface).
10. When all looks sparkly clean, rinse the object well inside and out with water again.
11. Air dry the cleaned object before stowing or reusing.
12. Hay nets can be laundered in a washing machine and then be line dried or hand washed with detergent, rinsed, soaked in a disinfectant solution, rinsed again and hung to dry.

More Barn Clean-Up Notes

Buckets, feed tubs, water troughs, feed scoops, wheelbarrows, feed carts, and barn tools are all made of non-porous materials. They can all be washed and disinfected using the above steps. Remember to apply a light coating of WD40, or similar product, to the metal parts of barn tools to prevent rust if they are going to be stored for a long period of time.

Wooden stall walls and dirt/clay/sand/gravel stall floors are examples of porous materials that are much harder to clean, because dirt and disease organisms can hide in the cracks and crevices. Porous surfaces require different strategies. Stall walls require hands-on scrubbing, sometimes repeated multiple times, lots of rinsing, and perhaps a different type of disinfectant.

Porous stall floors should be scraped of all organic matter, ag lime applied, and air dried using fans and open windows and doors. On warm, sunny days, it always helps to let air flow through and sunshine into stalls and barn aisles since pathogens often need dark, moist environments to grow. When cleaning stalls, don’t forget to pull the stall mats and clean and disinfect them on both sides and let them, and the floor underneath, air dry before replacing.

Barn towels, leg wraps, horse blankets and stable sheets, and other “horse laundry,” should be shaken or vacuumed, possibly pre-rinsed and stains pre-treated, laundered, and machine-dried or air-dried according to manufacturer’s directions, repaired as necessary, and finally stored in tack trunks or plastic storage bags/tubs until needed again. If your goal is to disinfect often-touched surfaces in barn aisles and tack rooms, don’t forget cross-ties, light switches, water hydrant handles, and door and drawer handles.

Grooming tools and supplies should also be cleaned. Brushes, curries and combs, as well as plastic spray bottles, can be scrubbed in dish detergent water, then rinsed and soaked in disinfectant for at least 15 minutes, then rinsed again, and air dried.

The post How to Clean Buckets, Feed Tubs, Water Tanks and Hay Nets appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

While horse owners in East Texas and along the Louisiana’s Gulf Coast are still reeling from Hurricane Laura’s aftermath, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting that the 2020 hurricane season will be the most active in recent years. In response, equine-focused emergency groups are working to meet the expected challenges head-on.

In late August, Hurricane Laura began its march across the Gulf of Mexico before slamming into portions of Texas and the Louisiana Gulf Coast, pelting the region with heavy rains and Category 4 hurricane-force winds gusting at 133 miles per hour. In coastal Louisiana, flood waters rose as high as 13 feet.

So far, Hurricane Laura is being blamed for more than $25 billion in damage and at least 16 deaths. According to the National Weather Service, the storm was one of the strongest hurricanes ever to make landfall in the U.S.

Hardest hit were the Calcasieu and Cameron Parishes near Lake Charles, La., according to Rebecca McConnico, DVM, Ph.D., Dipl. ACVIM, who is a professor in Agricultural Sciences and Forestry at Louisiana Tech University and advisor to many equine-focused hurricane response groups. She is also a member of the Louisiana State Animal Response Team, a member of the Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association’s Equine Committee and on the Advisory Council for The Foundation For The Horse.

“Both are rural, and Lake Charles (in Calcasieu Parish) took a direct hit,” says McConnico. “A lot of people did evacuate their horses, but the big issue now is getting hay and feed and fresh water to people and horses in those areas.”

Equine welfare groups in the state and elsewhere are working to get supples and food resources to horse owners in the hurricane-ravaged region.

“Some private groups are setting up hay drops and (a feed manufacturer) has arranged for feed to be brought into the area,” she says.

In addition to those private efforts, the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) has established a GoFundMe page to accept monetary donations to benefit Louisiana livestock owners affected by the storm, says LDAF Commissioner Mikes Strain, DVM.

In Texas, approximately 190 horses were evacuated ahead of the storm to sheltering facilities in Northeast and Central Texas located outside of the anticipated path of the storm, according to Olivia Hemby, a Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) planner in the Department of Energy Management.

Despite the precautions, Texas was spared the brunt of Hurricane Laura.

The Texas A&M University Veterinary Emergency Team (VET) deployed to Jefferson County (Texas) based on the request of local officials, says Director Wesley Bissett, DVM, Ph.D.,
“It was the perfect thing for them to do to anticipate damage and to be prepared,” adds Bissett through a written statement. “We were very fortunate, and really all of Texas was very fortunate, that the impact here was not as bad as anticipated, [and] our services aren’t needed.”

Even so, VET has been in touch with the veterinary community in Louisiana and continues to monitor the situation there.

Hurricane-affected horse owners in Louisiana are also receiving assistance from the Kentucky-based Foundation For The Horse Disaster Relief Fund. That group has donated $5,000 to VET and the Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association’s Equine Committee to underwrite immediate emergency efforts.

In addition, The Foundation For The Horse will work with agencies and veterinary members in Louisiana to identify the needs of the equine community, and to provide monetary and material support, according to Rick Mitchell, DVM, MRCVS, Dipl. ACVSMR, who is the Foundation For The Horse’s Advisory Council Chair.

“The Foundation and the equine veterinary community know the tragic loss of life and incredible destruction and flooding that can and will be caused by Hurricane Laura,” shared Mitchell in a written statement. “We are compelled to reach out, together with our members, horse owners and industry leaders to proactively support the disaster’s equine victims.”

While horse owners continue to recover from Hurricane Laura, the director of NOAA’s National Hurricane Center is urging horse owners in storm-vulnerable areas to remember that the 2020 hurricane season is far from over.

“The 2020 hurricane season is expected to be very active,” says NHC Director Ken Graham in a video message. “It’s important to have a plan.”

McConnico agrees.

“People have to remain aware that hurricane season is dangerous,” she says. “People can’t forget what we learned from Katrina.”

The post Horse Owners Challenged to Rebound after Hurricane Laura appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

It’s always a good reminder to have a plan and be ready in case of a natural disaster or other emergency. Wildfires, floods, and hurricanes are among the most destructive disasters. If you have to evacuate your home, it’s essential to know what options you have for your animals. We hope these horse emergency planning tips help you make your plan.

Create your horse emergency plan ahead of time when there is no imminent disaster and review it regularly so you won’t have to figure out logistics in the chaos of an emergency.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) offers these tips for horse emergency disaster preparedness.

◆ Know where to go. You’ll need to have a few options for locations that are close enough to trailer to but far enough away that they aren’t likely to be affected by the same evacuation orders. These could includes fairgrounds or a friend or family’s property. Keep a list saved at the barn, in your car, and on your phone.
◆ If you don’t travel with your horse often, practice trailer loading at home regularly so that if you need to evacuate in an emergency, your horse will be more likely to load calmly and quickly.
◆ Know your evacuation routes and practice them ahead of time if they take you to unfamiliar roads.
◆ Network with your neighbors or other boarders at your barn. Discuss how you can pool resources, such as truck and trailer space, to get all of your horses and the necessary supplies to a safe location.
◆ Prepare an emergency kit for your horses. You’ll need a travel first-aid kit,
extra lead ropes and halters, water buckets, and enough hay and grain to get through a few days longer than you think an evacuation might last.
◆ Don’t forget planning for all your pets. Not all evacuation shelters for people allow cats and dogs.

ASPCA Disaster Response Manager Tim Perciful gives expert advice about why
you shouldn’t turn your horse loose in an emergency and the benefits of microchipping.

If evacuation of horses isn’t possible, what’s the next best option?

◆ It’s crucial to heed the warning upon any advance notice for hurricane or wildfire evacuations and try to move your horses away from danger prior to
the emergency.
◆ If you have good defensible space in a wildfire and can have a fire break, then it may be best to have your horses shelter in place. one of the challenges
to this is that wildfires can send embers over long distances, and they could still ignite a barn, pasture, fencing, et cetera.
◆ If you’re inland and on high ground, then it may be best to shelter your horses in place during a hurricane.
◆ Try to identify an evacuation barn in advance that will be available in an
emergency.
◆ One of the safest places for your animals is in an emergency animal shelter where they are out of harm’s way, have access to care, and you can check on them regularly. It may take a couple of trips to move them, so it’s important to do so prior to a mandatory evacuation notice.

Are there situations where it’s better to turn your horses loose?

◆ During a hurricane, it’s not generally advised to turn your horses loose. You should work with officials on the best thing to do for any animals that are going to be immediately impacted by a disaster. Letting your horses loose during a hurricane may keep them away from danger, but it may also make it difficult for you to be reunited with your horse unless you have proper documentation.
◆ Releasing horses that are going to be immediately impacted by a wildfire
is not usually advised. You should contact emergency personnel to see if there are any other options. Evacuating your horses as soon as possible in a disaster is crucial, and will help get your horses and your family in a safe place as soon as possible.
◆ There are times when people have to evacuate and leave their animals behind. however, it may take animal rescuers a few days to get to your animals. If you are considering this, think about food, water, medications, and the animal’s overall safety.

If you are bringing your horses to an evacuation center, what are some important things to know?

◆ Proof of vaccinations and health records are important to bring with your horse. keep your veterinary records, photos of your horse and his ID information in a Ziploc bag and ready to go at all times.
◆ Be sure your horse’s vaccinations and coggins are up to date at all times. If disaster strikes and your horse needs to be evacuated or comingled with other horses, it may restrict your ability to move him if your horse is not up to date.

This article on horse emergency planning tips originally appeared in the September 2019 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Horse Emergency Planning Tips appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.